Over 400 workers at AGO to go on strike after failed contract negotiations
On Tuesday, more than 400 workers at the Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO) in Toronto will be walking off the job after contract talks between the union and the gallery’s management failed.
The workers, who are represented by the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) Local 3179, include visitor services staff, art handlers, and maintenance workers. They have been without a contract since December 31, 2020.
According to CUPE, the main issues in the negotiations were job security, fair wages, and benefits. The union claims that the gallery’s management has been unwilling to address these concerns, leading to the breakdown of talks.
In a statement, CUPE Local 3179 president Maureen O’Reilly said, “Our members are dedicated to making the AGO a world-class institution, but they deserve to be treated fairly and with respect. Unfortunately, the gallery’s management has not shown a willingness to negotiate a fair contract.”
The strike is set to begin at 12:01 am on Tuesday and will affect all areas of the gallery, including the popular exhibitions and programs. The union has also stated that picket lines will be set up at the gallery’s entrances, and they are asking the public to respect their picket lines and not cross them.
The AGO has released a statement saying that they are disappointed that the negotiations have reached this point and that they remain committed to reaching a fair agreement with the union. They have also stated that the gallery will remain open during the strike, with limited services and programming.
The AGO is one of the largest art museums in North America, with a collection of over 95,000 works of art. It is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, and the strike is expected to have a significant impact on the gallery’s operations.
This is not the first time that the AGO has faced labour disputes. In 2019, the gallery’s workers went on strike for 11 days before reaching a new contract agreement. The union is hoping that this strike will not last as long and that a fair deal can be reached quickly.
In the meantime, the union is asking for the public’s support and understanding during this time. O’Reilly stated, “We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause, but we hope that the public will stand with us in our fight for fair treatment and a fair contract.”
The strike at the AGO is just one of many labour disputes happening across the country as workers fight for fair wages, job security, and better working conditions. It serves as a reminder of the importance of fair negotiations and treating workers with respect.
